HERBERT FRANCIS COOK --- ( 1859 ------1943 )

edmondsallan - Goodmorning every one . " Herbert " who educated himself by studying educational books . In doing so , and although he travelled the world aboard whaling ships , when he settled down in Russell , Bay of Islands , new settlers often called upon him seeking his advice & assistance . He was a terrific worker & his colleagues & friends wondered when he slept , he had so much energy. " Herbert joined an American whaler at Russell .nz in 1879 and for the next ten
( 10 )years sailed the worlds whaling grounds . Whaling & harpooning whales in those days was a very tough .You were in danger as soon as you got near your whale ,in your long Boat . particular episodes were logged and describes the accidents that happened to " Herbert " when he went to Harpoon sperm whales . One particular sperm whale after " Herbert " had harpooned him , along with other harpooners in two other boats , dived & came up among their long boats & smashed all three of them to pieces . Four ( 4 ) of his shipmates were kiLled , others were injured ,including himself. Another time he threw the harpoon , it dug into the whale which took off . " Herbert " did not realize his foot was caught in the harpoon rope he threw . He was dragged overboard and being towed further out into the ocean when he managed to free himself . Both are true stories . While at sea he also taught himself other skills . He also became a carpenter , & a blacksmith . " Herbert Francis Cooke " while working for a whaling company at the Bluff in Otago, decided to marry " Ellen Anglem " on the 8th April 1889. they returned to Russell , Bay of Islands . Their he set up his own contracting business to do many tasks . At one stage he was working on the " Ninepin Rock " at the entrance to the Bay of Islands , including " Outu Bay & Bland Bay " He and his family finally settled at " Whangmumu " as base to work from in 1890's . " Herbert Francis Cook " died in in 1943 at age 84 . Just goes to show us that Hard work doesn't seem to kill any one . The records I have on his family , I have not printd as I was unable to prove their names , Dates of birth etc' I am not even sure or cannot prove they were his children . Although 90 % sure , definetly not proven . Ok , its a beautiful day out their . enjoy . Till we meet again - Regards -edmondsallan